self-pollinate

[ self-pol-uh-neyt, self- ]

verb (used with or without object)

, self-pol·li·nat·ed, self-pol·li·nat·ing.

1. to undergo or cause to undergo self-pollination.

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-pollinate¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

This allows them to self-pollinate instead of relying on birds, insects or other pollinators.

From Salon

When cranberries don't self-pollinate, they rely on bumblebees and honeybees to transport their pollen from flower to flower.

From Salon

In rice, seed companies must first develop a strain of plants that can’t self-pollinate.

From Science Magazine

Most cucumbers can’t self-pollinate, which means that they need the pollen of another plant to form seeds and fruit.

From Seattle Times

The Reginas do not self-pollinate, which is why Fowler needs bees to pick up pollen from other varieties interspersed in the rows — and drop it in the Regina blossoms.

From Seattle Times